Peter Hibberd, M.D., is a doctor whose advice is based on more than 28 years of hospital outpatient and inpatient experience. He is an experienced emergency medicine physician, surgeon, and consultant. Dr. Hibberd is certified by the American Board of Emergency Medicine. He is also a fellow and active member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, an active member of the American College of Emergency Physicians, and a member and fellow of the American Academy of Emergency Medicine. Dr. Hibberd has earned numerous national and international professional certifications, memberships, and awards.

Are Sweet Fruits Bad for Diabetics?

Question: I am a man in my 60s and I just found out I have diabetes. I know that sugar is a bad thing, but what about sweet fruits like mango, apples, etc.?

Dr. Hibberd's answer: Sugar is not bad, it's just that you need to avoid refined sugar products, lose weight, and try to follow a no-concentrated sweet diet. With Type 2 Diabetes, your body is not able to handle high glucose loading because your insulin levels are normal or elevated due to the presence of insulin resistance in your peripheral and fat tissues. This insulin resistance will self correct with weight loss and appropriate balance between diet, activity, and medication. I presume your doctor has provided you with a guide on your recommended daily caloric intake, and love that you are including fruits with good fiber content. They will in turn provide a favorable glycemic index, and are healthy for you. The American Diabetes Association suggests that fruit can be eaten in place of other carbohydrates such as starches, grains, or dairy. Having a small piece of whole fruit or a ½ cup of fruit salad for dessert can be combined with the non-starchy vegetables, small portion of starch, and protein foods that make up your meal. Most common fruits, including mango and apples, have a low glycemic index (GI) because of their fructose and fiber content. Melons and pineapple have medium GI values, as do some dried fruits such as dates, raisins, and sweetened cranberries, so be cautious about portions of these.

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